The East of Iceland is, geographically, one of the oldest areas of the country, and the furthest from the capital. The mountains slump diagonally into the sea, creating a beautiful and distinctive landscape. Many of the winding fjords are cut off from Route One, which runs inland, but for the relatively few tourists who make it, they contain interesting little towns and tucked-away villages with many interesting and eccentric sights, stops, bars and shops.
Best Accommodation
Wilderness Center
Múlavegur í fljótsdal, Egilsstaðir
Ever wondered how it would be to live like Icelanders of yore? Well, you can experience it at the Wilderness Center. They offer authentic old-style accommodation that sends you back in time—whether you want to become a landowner, a farmer, or just an ordinary person. Every detail has been considered by the charming hosts. There’s a range of trips and activities on offer, and you’ll have access to a bath house with a sauna.
Fancy option:
Fosshotel Eastfjords
Hafnargata 11-14, Fáskrúðsfjörður
A beautiful, historic hotel in the old hospital in Fáskrúðsfjörður, which was originally built to service French fishermen. Their cultural impact remains in the small museum, and the more-than-decent wine list. The hotel itself is a delight—charming, cosy, and a welcome change from the Nordic minimalist zeitgeist.
Runner-Up:
Hallormsstaðaskógur Camping Ground
Hallormsstaður
These two campsites—Atlavík and Höfdavík—are located in the largest Icelandic forest, covering an area of 740 hectares, right by the famed Lagarfljót lake. Quiet-seeking travellers can listen to the rich birdlife, walk in the forest, sit on the banks of the lake and look out for the infamous Lagarfljót Worm. Blissful.
Other Categories
You can buy a copy of the full Best Of Iceland 2019 magazine—an essential guide to having fun in Iceland—here, posted worldwide. We also have a Special Offer double-pack that also includes our Best Of Reykjavík magazine, about places to eat, see, swim, visit, and shop in the country’s capital city, here.
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!
